Video Podcast Equipment: Best Gear for Beginners & Professionals

Starting a video podcast can be an exciting next step in your podcasting career. But if you are considering launching a visual element alongside your podcast, you need to choose the right equipment. Whether you're a beginner or a professional, having the right tools can make a significant difference in the quality of your content. Let's break down the best video podcast equipment to get started and what professionals use to take production up a level.

The Best Video Podcast Equipment for Beginners

Getting started with video podcasting doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. Here's a breakdown of the basic equipment you need. 

Microphones

When video podcasting, at the heart of it you are still producing a podcast, which means audio reigns above all. And sure, your content is what will drive listenership, but if you’ve got great content with a sub-par recording, you won’t see as many listens. So, launch your podcast on the right foot and get yourself a good mic from the start. 

When searching for your podcasting microphone, there’s a few things to understand. First, there are two types of microphones: dynamic and condenser. To put it in beginner terms: condenser microphones produce a better quality sound but can be super sensitive to vibration and other factors. Dynamic microphones are more cost-effective and can handle external noise better. When it comes down to it, we’d say look for a dynamic microphone.

Then,  there are two ways a microphone can connect to record: USB or XLR. You’ll find USB microphones are better for the cost and learning curve, but XLR microphones offer superior sound quality and are better when juggling multiple mics. 

Here’s what we’d recommend for a beginner video podcasting kit:

• Audio Technica ATR2100

• Audio Technica AT2005 USB

Headphones

Don’t forget a good set of headphones. You want a pair of high-quality headphones to hear your playback and what you are recording. They also happen to help stop your mic from picking up any unwanted echo from your computer. 

Any noise-canceling, wired-in headphones will do but some choices we recommend are the Audio-Technica ATH-M20X, and Sennheiser HD280Pro.

Camera 

Well, it goes without saying, you’ll need good cameras if you’re producing a video podcast. Of course some creators kick off their video podcasts with just a webcam, but the better the quality, the better response your show will get. A decent camera is essential for recording high-quality video that drives engagement. 

How many cameras you require will depend on your format and style. Will you be shooting a single-camera setup or a multi-camera setup?

For a single-camera setup, many creators are inclined to use a DSLR camera with video capabilities. This type of camera offers high-quality video and the ability to change lenses for different shots.

At Lower Street, we instead suggest using a PTZ (pan, title, zoom) webcam designed specifically for streaming. We’ve included options for both, though, so you can decide based on your preferences and budget.

In some cases, we’ll be honest a smartphone can produce some great video, it’s up to you to determine if it is up to your standards. The only downside of using a smartphone is some lack certain features like stabilization or frame rate that can improve your final video. 

• Insta360 Link: The Insta360 Link is a portable webcam. It provides reliability and plug-and-play functionality while still delivering high-quality visuals. It’s a super low-effort solution worth considering. It offers 4K Resolution, an HDR mode, and True Focus.

• Canon EOS Rebel T7i: A budget-friendly,entry-level DSLR camera, the Canon EOS Rebel T7i has an impressive variety of features: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS Sensor to capture stunning images with exceptional detail and low noise; 45-Point All-Cross-Type Autofocus System which lets you enjoy fast, accurate autofocus in various lighting conditions, even when tracking moving subjects; and a 3.0-Inch Vari-Angle Touchscreen LCD: Easily adjust camera settings, frame your shots, and review footage from the touch screen display.

• Sony Alpha a6400: a great mid-range mirrorless digital camera. The higher price point delivers, offering a wide range of features including a 24.2MP Exmor CMOS Sensor: to capture quality content even in low-light conditions, Real-time Eye AF, which uses AI to detect and focus on the subject's eyes, even when they're partially obscured or not looking directly at the camera, and finally the 425-Point Hybrid Autofocus System which offers fast, accurate autofocus covering a wide frame area.

Lighting

There’s only so much a good camera can do, and good lighting can drastically improve your video quality. It enhances the overall feel of your videos, helps set the mood, and creates a professional look. Depending on your video podcasting setup, you may need different options. But whether you're recording in a studio or a makeshift setup at home, investing in good lighting can make all the difference to the visual appeal of your podcast.

A tip? Plan on using a three-point lighting setup can add depth and dimension to your videos. 

 Here's the basic equipment you need to get started:

• Simple Lighting Setups: A ring light is an affordable way to ensure your face is well-lit.

• Affordable Lighting Kits: Softbox lighting kits can create a more professional look without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking for specific recommendations, here’s what we’d say to add to your video podcasting kit.

• Neewer 660 LED Video Light Kit: a versatile and budget-friendly lighting solution, it’s adaptable and easy to use. It includes in-app control of color, brightness, and channels.It also has multiple power options, either an AC adapter or NP-F550/F970 batteries (sold separately) for ease of use. Another good option for a budget-friendly lighting kit is the Aputure MC Pro.

• Elgato Key Light: designed with convenience and performance in mind, this is perfect for video podcasters looking for a professional lighting solution. It includes an ultra-soft panel with adjustable brightness,wi-fi enabled controls, and a space-saving design. 

• If you have the budget, the Aputure Infinibar is a great addition to your lighting kit. It allows changes in color and intensity and can transform the feel of your show.

Advanced Equipment for Professional Video Podcasts

As you become more experienced, you might want to invest in higher-quality equipment to really stand out. In truth, even the pros use some of the equipment we have mentioned above. At times it isn’t so much your experience but rather what you want to create. For example, suppose you are years into video podcasting but still produce a front-facing, single-host podcast. In that case, you won’t necessarily need highly technical equipment - a classic DSLR and your trusted microphone still do great.

But if you find your equipment limits you, and you’d like to try a new sound, new angles, or multiple angles, here's what the pros use.

For Video Recording

As we mentioned - the previously mentioned DSLRs are still great. You’ll need to test out your podcast and find out what works best for you. The Sony A7 III is a favorite among professional creators. It offers excellent video quality, great low-light performance, and versatility. However,you may find the standard lens it comes with doesn’t capture the feel of the content you’d like. We’d recommend trying out some other lenses for a crisper feel or better image of your guests. A few of our favorites are the Sony FE 16-35mm or Sigma 24-70mm.

If you feel you need something more mobile, with more advanced features, the Canon XA11 is a professional camcorder to look into. It provides great quality and advanced controls, ensuring your recordings are top-notch.

You may also invest in a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV which offers 4K video, clean HDMI output, and with Canon's Webcam Utility software via USB, it transforms easily into a high-quality webcam. It likes to show off a great microphone, but even so, when podcasting it is better to have a dedicated external mic and not rely on other built-in ones.

Finally, an incredible high-quality investment is the Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro. It’s an excellent choice for streaming and podcasting, offering an incredible  6K resolution. It can also be connected and used as a webcam.

For a multi-camera setup, you'll need multiple cameras you can sync together. This allows you to capture different angles and perspectives during your podcast. However, it does require some additional equipment.

Connecting Multi-Camera Setups

A multi-camera setup requires additional equipment to link everything together. You’ll need a switcher to switch between camera feeds and cables to connect the cameras to the switcher.

Alternatively, you could opt for a software-based solution like OBS Studio. We’ve outlined the key features of each of them below so you can make an informed choice.

Hardware: Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Pro

The ATEM Mini Pro is a physical switcher that lets you easily control your multi-camera setup and switch between different camera angles during your podcast recording. It has multiple HDMI camera inputs, multi-view monitoring, and even has a live stream capability.

Software: OBS Studio
OBS Studio is a free, open-source app for creating professional-grade live streams and recordings. It can accommodate multiple cameras and provides extensive editing abilities, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a cost-effective way to stream and record. 

Professional Microphones

The microphones we previously mentioned are still great, but if you want to take your recording up a notch, we highly recommend the Shure SM7B. We love it for its clear and rich audio. It’s a bit of an investment but worth every penny for serious podcasters. 

Additional Accessories and Tools

When planning your podcasting setup, don't forget you’ll need some additional accessories to complete it all. 

Chances are with your lights and cameras, you’ll need tripods and mounts to keep everything working. For steady camera shots, a tripod or mount is essential. It helps keep the camera stable and prevents shaky footage, resulting in a more professional and polished look for your videos.

When choosing a tripod or mount, consider height adjustability, stability, and portability. Look for features like quick-release plates, fluid heads for smooth panning and tilting, and adjustable legs for different shooting angles.

The Manfrotto Befree Advanced is well-built and ensures your camera remains stable. Another budget-friendly option is the Neewer C-Clamp Desktop Mount.

You can also use a ball-head mount like the Joby BallHead 5K to offer more flexibility in positioning your camera.

Audio Interfaces and Mixers

All that audio has to go somewhere. If you are recording with multiple inputs, or with XLR microphones you’ll need an audio mixer to put it all together. A mixer connects your mic to your computer and allows more volume control and editing flexibility. The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is one of the best as it’s simple to use, and connects your XLR microphones to your computer via a USB-C cable. 

If you want a more comprehensive set of studio controls, the RODECaster is a great choice. You can connect up to four microphones and have more control via its eight programmable settings. 

Further reading: The Best Podcast Equipment

Editing Software

While it may not be physical equipment, you’ve always got to remember your editing software as part of your video podcasting kit. Post-production can make or break your podcast. You’ll want to find something that can edit video and audio together.

• Beginners: Descript and Riverside offer both great recording tools as well as post-production tools for editing audio and video.

• Professionals: Adobe Audition and Premiere Pro offer advanced features for both audio and video editing.

Video Podcast Setup for Two

At least 23% of podcasts feature guests every episode, and many more than that feature them quite often. With that in mind, we figured it could be helpful to share the best approach for a video podcast setup for two.

You’ll want a comfortable spot for you and your guest, close enough that you can still have a conversation, but far enough away so as to not pick up each other’s mics.

Consider two of the same microphones to have an equal recording, and you may want to invest in boom arms in order to position them at mouth level for every guest. XLR microphones will probably be the best option, while it is an investment, this is a great time for the Shure MV7. Then you’ll need your audio mixer to combine the recordings.

For cameras, a standard setup would be one front-facing to capture you and your guest together, then one for a close-up of each participant. Your full-view camera should have a wide field, the Insta360 Link webcam does fine, or you may want to invest in a Sony FX30. It offers higher-quality video,  unlimited recording, and 4K capabilities. Plus if you purchase one with the XLR audio top handle, you can use any XLR microphone directly without needing a separate audio device. This helps drastically in post-production when it comes to syncing audio For views of the guest and host, a mirrorless camera can get a better depth and portrait setting to capture them better. Here the Sony Alpha a6400 is a good starter option.

Then, of course, you’ll need your lighting, and enough to highlight both speakers. The exact setup will depend on your recording space, but make sure to capture both speakers both from the front wide angle and personally.

Wrapping Up

Choosing the best video podcast equipment can make a huge difference in your end result. There’s no need to break the bank, but beginners should focus on budget-friendly options that are easy to use, while with time, you may want to invest in higher-end gear to improve your content. Regardless of your experience with video podcasting, the right tools can help you create engaging, high-quality podcasts that keep your audience coming back for more.

If you need help stepping into video podcasting, the Lower Street team is here to help. We produce top-notch video podcasts for ambitious brands. Get in touch and let’s take your podcast to the screen.